Preston North End are saddened to learn that former promotion-winning midfielder Paul Birch has died after losing his battle with bone cancer.

Birch, who was 46, eventually succumbed to his illness on Monday morning at Good Hope Hospital, Sutton Coldfield, having suffered from the condition over a lengthy period.

Joining North End on loan from Wolves in March 1996, the midfielder slotted into the side to cover for the injured Lee Cartwright, and scored twice in 11 starts during the run-in to that memorable campaign, ultimately losing his place just prior to the game that secured promotion at Leyton Orient in the third division title-winning season of 1995/96.

Born in West Bromwich on 20th November 1962, he later made his name having progressed through Aston Villa's youth scheme, playing in their FA Youth Cup winning side in 1980 before becoming a mainstay in the first team until his eventual departure to Wolves in 1991.

Having followed up his 212 Villa appearances with a further 166 Molineux outings, he then wound down his professional career with Doncaster and Exeter after his temporary Deepdale move, and later represented non-league Halesowen Town before keeping his passion for the game going in retirement by appearing on numerous occasions for Aston Villa's 'Old Stars' team and their 'Masters Football' side.

His death comes just a matter of weeks after a group of 19 former Aston Villa and West Brom players made a special bucket collection in his aid when the two sides met at Villa Park.

Our condolances go to Paul's family and friends at this sad time.